British actress Cara Tointon, 41, has announced that she carries the BRCA1 gene mutation and underwent preventive surgeries following her mother’s ovarian cancer diagnosis. Tointon shared her story in a video for The Eve Appeal’s “Get Lippy Month,” a campaign to raise awareness of genetic testing for gynaecological cancers.
Positive BRCA1 Test Prompted by Family History
Tointon explained that she was offered genetic testing in 2018 while her mother was receiving treatment for ovarian cancer. Although there had long been cases of breast and ovarian cancer on her mother’s side of the family, the family did not investigate their risk until her mother’s diagnosis.
“Being a BRCA1 carrier means I am at high risk for breast and ovarian cancer,” Tointon said. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but I’m glad and lucky that I made it.”
Preventive Double Mastectomy and Trial Study
After testing positive for the BRCA1 mutation, Tointon chose preventive surgery over regular monitoring. In 2024, she underwent a double mastectomy followed by participation in a two-part conservation study trial.
“These surgeries were the right decision for me and my family,” she told viewers. “Now that I think back on it, I can talk about it well.”
Angelina Jolie’s Similar Choice in 2013
Tointon’s decision mirrors that of Angelina Jolie, who tested positive for BRCA1 in 2013 and chose preventive surgeries after her mother’s death from breast and ovarian cancer in 2007.
Prevalence of BRCA Mutations
BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are relatively rare in the general population. For instance, about 1 in 500 Australians carry a BRCA1 mutation and 1 in 225 carry a BRCA2 mutation—statistics that highlight the importance of genetic testing for at-risk individuals.
Career Highlights and Family Life
Cara Tointon first gained recognition playing Dawn Swann in the BBC series EastEnders. In 2010, she won Strictly Come Dancing, and in 2015 she starred as Maria in The Sound of Music on stage. She has two children with her former fiancé, Marius Janssen.
By publicly discussing her BRCA1 status and preventive surgeries, Tointon hopes to encourage others with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer to consider genetic testing and explore all available risk-reducing options.
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